As we bid farewell to 2023, Independent by Flight Centre (IFC) is poised to embark on an exhilarating new chapter in North America, and we are eager for agency owners and advisors to join us!
FCTG Independent takes pride in its global community of over 2,000 advisors. Having achieved resounding success with our agency program in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, where hundreds of agencies have joined our network, we are now expanding to welcome a wide range of agencies across the Great White North.
Operating under the FCTG umbrella, which spans 95 countries, and boasting an annual sales record exceeding 22 billion, partnering with us unlocks a gateway to a vast global network of resources.
SEAMLESS BOOKING EXPERIENCE, MAXIMIZED PROFITS
Our in-house land and air contracts empower agency owners to effortlessly book air and land components for clients. Seamlessly navigate via GDS, our online air platform for non-GDS users, and our Helio land booking system. Say goodbye to third-party consolidators and hello to maximizing profits through our top-tier commissions.
We caught up with our National Sales Director, Michael Roque, to spill the beans on this thrilling venture:
Q: What sets Independent by Flight Centre apart in the host agency space?
A: “Great question! IFC is a true standout in the Canadian landscape, as an integral part of FCTG, we offer agencies incredible advantages – access to global products, some of the industry’s highest commissions, and unwavering support. Our robust global ecosystem and scale empower us to secure exclusive airfare and land agreements with premier suppliers, allowing us to handle a vast majority of air bookings in-house, including published fares, commissionable rates, and wholesale nets, minimizing reliance on external consolidators, our agency owners can fully optimize their profits, gaining a significant competitive advantage in the Canadian travel landscape.”
Q: Any additional perks beyond product and commissions for agencies joining IFC?
A: “Absolutely! We have an incredibly vibrant community of travel professionals, comprised of seasoned experts with years of industry experience. Our diverse network includes individuals who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise, fostering a dynamic environment for collaboration and growth. Agency owners can take advantage of platforms like Workplace and our iReach marketing platform to simplify operations. Additionally, they can qualify for our Independent Icons trip, where our top 50 advisors from around the world embark on exclusive journeys—just like our recent cruise down the Danube with Uniworld. We are preparing for our first-ever Global conference this spring in Santiago, Chile. Our members consistently express that these priceless networking and global collaborations are unique opportunities that set them apart in the industry.”
Q: Why is now the perfect time for agencies to join IFC, and does it mean giving up their brand?
A: “We’re still early in the agency process in Canada, presenting a golden opportunity for agency owners to join our ever-growing community. Our community is flourishing, with over 25 agencies welcomed by our colleagues in Australia since July 1. Your brand is your identity, and we value the hard work you’ve invested in building your reputation and business. Rest assured; we don’t ask you to give it up. Whether you envision us as your secret weapon or wish to leverage the power of the FCTG brand, the choice is yours. As we’ve been actively engaged in meaningful meetings and conversations with agency owners, we eagerly look forward to continuing this trend. Let’s initiate a conversation and explore how we can collaboratively shape a successful path forward for both of us.”
Discover more about the benefits of aligning your business with IFC here.
